Quaternary ammonium compounds should not be combined with quaternary ammonium cleaners for cleaning and disinfection at the same time, because quat can be deactivated with the compounds anionic detergent as a wetting agent and others. However, an increase in alkalinity through formulation with a suitable detergent can strengthen the bactericidal activity of quat. Although quat is not ideal for surfaces in contact with food, but quat has the ability to reduce microbial populations on surfaces other.
The main advantages of quaternary ammonium compounds are:
o stability against reaction with organic materials,
o metal corrosion resistance,
o stable to heat,
o noniritas skin, and
o effective at high pH.
Loss of quaternary ammonium compounds are:
o limited effectiveness (including not effective against most gram-negative microorganisms than Salmonella and Escherichia coli,
o can not work together with the type of synthetic anionic detergent, and
o film formation on equipment handling and food processing.
Quaternary compounds are stable, even in aqueous solution and when concentrated can be stored safely for long periods without loss of activity. Because QACs are cationic surfactants, then they have the ability as a detergent, but can not be used together with an anionic surfactant or even with certain non-ionic surfactant. Salts, water is likely to reduce the activity of QACs, the effect depends on the length of the alkyl chain QACs, when used in the right sequestering agents, its activity can be restored.
Sequestran election should be done with caution because some can not be together with beberpa QACs and cause precipitation. Alkali-strong alkali induces similar effects and can not be used in conjunction with many compounds QACs. Generally detergent containing these materials must be rinsed carefully before granting QACs. Another is a cationic biguanide disinfectant used is limited, has the advantage of more active against gram-negative bacteria, does not produce foam and is not influenced by hard water.